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The King of Fighters’ beautiful return to pixel art

The King of Fighters (KOF, from now on) is one of the oldest fighting series in the industry, being KOF’94 the first entry. Details aside, it consists of 3-on-3 team based fights, with characters coming from other SNK (its developer) games.

The King of Fighters ’94

Many new editions followed that one, turning the franchise into a hit. Visually, most of them shared a similar 2D approach, until KOF: Maximum Impact came out in 2004, 10 years after the series debut, featuring 3D graphics for the first time.

The King of Fighters: Maximum Impact (2004)

However, in 2009 (15 years after the first game), KOF XII was released, going back to the 2D style, only in an incredibly detailed way. In an era ruled by 3D, its team decided to create industry-defining pixel art.

The King of Fighters XII (2009)

Let’s appreciate it in motion:

You should check the team’s motivations here, and a step-by-step tour here. You can even see each characterwith its own animations. Believe me, they are really worthwhile.